Karrev marked the completion of its £35 million restoration of the iconic Sunlight House last night with a celebratory launch event attended by city leaders and heritage advocates.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, praised the transformation as a “powerful example of how Manchester can restore and repurpose its historic buildings for the future.”
Councillor Gavin White echoed the sentiment, highlighting the city’s drive to protect its architectural heritage while supporting regeneration and growth.
A standout moment came when Marion Panayi, a relative of Sunlight House’s original visionary architect, Joseph Sunlight, joined the celebration after being traced by historian Dr Michala Hulme – offering a deeply personal link between Manchester’s past and present.
Guests enjoyed drinks from the award winning Schofield’s Bar, a longstanding Sunlight House tenant and food from acclaimed chef, Simon Wood. Sunlight House’s longest standing tenant, Flower Style, created floral displays.
The restoration sees Sunlight House – a defining Art Deco landmark on Quay Street since 1932 – reimagined for a new era, blending historic character with modern design and sustainability to create Grade A workspaces and best in class leisure.
Julien Buronfosse, Managing Director at Karrev, said: “Sunlight House is part of Manchester’s DNA. Restoring it to its former glory while preparing it for the next generation has been a privilege.”
